Jan 15, 2023
Philippians 4:10-13
Words To Live By: Contentment
“Contentment is nothing more than soul rest. It is satisfaction, peace, assurance, and a sense of wellbeing cultivated by pursuing the right things.”
-Gary Thomas
1. Practice a Godward orientation, v. 10
“Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you.”
-Psalm 32:9
2. Don’t speak fluent need, v. 11
Two reasons why…
a) because of what it does to you
b) because of what it does to everyone around you
3. Learn some things, v. 11
Four dominant learning styles…VARK Model
a) visual
b) auditory
c) read & write
d) kinesthetic
Paul learned some things that fueled contentment…
my life is a medium for the Gospel- 1:12
my suffering has a purpose- 1:13
our lives are intended to demonstrate the worth of the Gospel-1:27
as a Christian I will suffer on occasion-1:29
humility makes me capable of what I by nature am not- 2:3-4
what I do externally reflects what God is doing inwardly-2:12-13
my ministry is not in vain- 2:14-18
put no confidence in your flesh- 3:2-6
righteousness comes by faith and continues to depend on faith- 3:7-11
I haven’t arrived- 3:12-15
the peace of God calibrates my emotions- 4:7
how I live will always matter- 4:9
4. Expect all things, v. 13
Mental worship…
What or who is your life most consistently oriented around?
How do you tell the difference between your needs and your wants?
Of the four learning styles, which is yours and what is the last spiritual lesson/truth that you learned?
Which is easier for you, having plenty or not having enough?
What is one change you could make in your life that would help you become more content?